Florida- In Lake Panasoffkee, Sumter County

* The victim was discovered on February 19, 1971 in Lake Panasoffkee, Sumter County, Florida
* Estimated Date of Death: Two to three weeks prior to discovery
* Killed by Homicide by strangulation

Vital Statistics

* Estimated age: 18-23 years old
* Approximate Height and Weight: 5’2″; 100 lbs.
* Distinguishing Characteristics: Possibly mixed with Native. Black or dark brown hair.
* Skeletal Findings: Orthopedic surgery had been performed on her right ankle due to instability in the ankle. The procedure, known as a “Watson-Jones” technique, involved drilling two small holes in the ankle bone and winding a tendon through them. The surgery probably occurred between 1967 and 1970. She had given birth to at least one child.
* Clothing: Flowered printed shawl with a fringed border; plain cotton blouse; green flowered pants; bra and nylon underwear. Large, clear stone ring on right finger, yellow metal watch on left wrist.
* Dentals: Available. She had extensive dental work, including caps, fillings and crowns. A porcelain crown on one of her front teeth.
* DNA: Available.

Case History
The victim’s decomposed body was spotted in Lake Panasoffkee by two hitchhikers crossing the Panasoffkee bridge on February 19, 1971.
Police were notified and it was quickly determined that the girl had been strangled by a man’s size 36 belt, which was still around her throat.

Forensic artist Linda Galeener created a composite of the victim. When no one came to claim her body, Galeener was asked to create age-regression drawings, showing what the girl may have looked like at ages 6 and 12. Again, no one identified her.

The victims is nicknamed “Little Miss Panasoffkee” and it is quite possible that she was a runaway.
Authorities believe she was murdered else where and dumped off the bridge.

Investigators
If you have any information about this case please contact:
Sumter County Sheriff’s Office
352-93-0278
OR
District 5 Medical Examiner
352-326-5961

You may remain anonymous when submitting information.

Agency Case Number:
A-10-71

NCIC Number:
U-276515052
Please refer to this number when contacting any agency with information regarding this case.